Housing and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed herein may comprise a housing forming at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device. The housing comprises: a base; a first pattern layer which is formed on the base and in which a first pattern having at least two surfaces is formed; and a second pattern layer in which a second pattern having a width narrower than that of the first pattern is formed on at least one surface of the first pattern, wherein the at least one surface of the first pattern may be formed as a glabrous surface.

Description

Housing and electronic device containing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a metallic housing having an appearance that is perceived to have different glosses depending on the viewing position, and to an electronic device including the same.

[0002] Advances in information and communication technology (ICT) and semiconductor technology have led to a rapid increase in the proliferation and use of various electronic devices. In particular, recent electronic devices are being developed to be portable and capable of communicating. Furthermore, electronic devices can output stored information in the form of audio or video. As electronic device integration increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile terminal, can now incorporate a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as gaming, multimedia functions such as music and video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, calendar management, and electronic wallet functions are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are also being miniaturized for convenient portability.

[0003] Research is ongoing to create housings that form the exterior of electronic devices, utilizing various patterns to enhance their aesthetic design. For example, according to certain embodiments, a housing for an electronic device including patterns can be manufactured to visually capture the user's attention by combining various glossy patterns and colors.

[0004] Metal materials can be used as the housing material for electronic devices. For example, housings can be made using materials such as magnesium, aluminum, and titanium. Typically, the surface of a metal housing can be determined by its glossy appearance based on the irregularities that cause diffuse reflection.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing forming at least a portion of an exterior of the electronic device. The housing may include a base, a first pattern layer formed on the base and having a first pattern having at least two surfaces, and a second pattern layer formed with a second pattern having a width narrower than a width of the first pattern, at least one surface of the first pattern being formed as a glabrous surface.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing an electronic device may include a process of first processing a surface of a metallic housing to have a first pattern; a process of forming a second pattern on the surface of the housing on which the first pattern is formed; and a process of second processing to form a smooth surface on a portion of the surface of the housing on which the second pattern is formed.

[0008] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a first pattern layer including a base and a first pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a first processing process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a process for forming a rough surface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a secondary processing process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an electronic device housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 11A is a drawing showing a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a first pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 11B is a drawing showing a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a second pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 11C is a drawing showing a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a third pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11d is a drawing showing a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a fourth pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13A is a drawing showing a housing including a pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 13b is a drawing showing a housing including a pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 13c is a drawing showing a housing including a pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 13d is a drawing showing a housing including a pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 13e is a drawing showing a housing including a pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0030] In recent years, electronic devices have increasingly recognized external design as an important factor, not only in terms of the device's inherent performance but also in terms of its ability to implement various functions. Consequently, market demand for differentiated designs is increasing. However, the exterior of existing metal housings can only be adjusted to an overall gloss level, such as gloss or matte. Whether a housing's exterior is glossy or matte can be determined by the diffuse reflection caused by the irregularities formed on its surface. For example, if the housing's surface is flat, light incident on it will be regularly reflected, resulting in a glossy surface. However, if the housing's surface is irregular, the light will be scattered by the irregularities, resulting in a matte surface. This scattering of the light will cause the surface to lose its gloss. As described above, the surface of a metal housing can be either glossy or matte overall. Furthermore, a masking process can be used to create partial texture differences between the glossy and matte areas. However, the aforementioned masking method alone can only adjust the gloss or matte texture of specific locations on the housing surface, making it difficult to achieve a more diverse or aesthetically pleasing exterior design. For example, simply adjusting the gloss or matte texture of a specific area using the masking method can only provide the same visual information regardless of the angle from which the housing is viewed.

[0031] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a housing and an electronic device can be disclosed that provide various visual information depending on the viewing position of the housing surface, for example, providing multiple gloss and three-dimensional gloss.

[0032] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described in this disclosure may be made without departing from the scope and technical spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0033] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0034] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0035] In this disclosure, expressions such as "A or B" or "at least one of A and / or B" can include all possible combinations of the listed items. Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" can describe the corresponding components, regardless of order or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, but do not limit the corresponding components. When it is said that a certain (e.g., a first) component is "(functionally or communicatively) connected" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second) component, the certain component can be directly connected to the other component, or can be connected via another component (e.g., a third component).

[0036] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] In the detailed descriptions below in FIGS. 1 and 2, the length direction of the electronic device (100) may be defined as the 'Y-axis direction', the width direction as the 'X-axis direction', and / or the height direction (thickness direction) as the 'Z-axis direction'. In the detailed description below, references to the length direction, the width direction, and / or the height direction (or thickness direction) may indicate the length direction, the width direction, and / or the height direction (or thickness direction) of the electronic device (100). In some embodiments, with respect to the direction in which a component is oriented, 'negative / positive (- / +)' may be mentioned together with the rectangular coordinate system illustrated in the drawings. According to one embodiment, the arrangement relationship in the height direction of a certain component or another component, i.e., the reference of up / down, may follow the Z-axis direction. That is, when a component is said to be placed above another component, it can mean that the component is placed along the Z-axis with respect to the other component, and when a component is said to be placed below another component, it can mean that the component is placed in the direction opposite to the Z-axis with respect to the other component. On the other hand, it should be noted that even if a component is placed above or below another component, it does not mean that the entire component is located above or below all of the other components. For example, a part of a component may be placed above a part of another component, but another part of the component may be placed below a part of another component. It should be noted that when a component is said to overlap (or stack) another component in the following description, the description of the arrangement relationship in the height direction described above can be applied. In the description of the direction, if 'yin / yang (- / +)' is not stated, it can be interpreted as facing the + direction unless otherwise defined.For example, 'Z-axis direction' can be interpreted as pointing in the +Z direction, 'X-axis direction' can be interpreted as pointing in the +X-axis direction, and 'Y-axis direction' can be interpreted as pointing in the +Y-axis direction. In describing directions, pointing in any one of the three axes of the orthogonal coordinate system can include pointing in a direction parallel to the axis. This is based on the orthogonal coordinate system described in the drawings for the sake of brevity of description, and it is to be noted that the description of such directions or components does not limit the various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a housing (101) including a front surface (101A), a rear surface (101B), and a side surface (101C) surrounding a space between the front surface (101A) and the rear surface (101B). In another embodiment (not shown), the housing (101) may refer to a structure forming a portion of the front surface (101A) of FIG. 1 and the rear surface (101B) and the side surface (101C) of FIG. 2. According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the front surface (101A) may be formed by a substantially transparent front plate (102) (e.g., a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate). The rear surface (101B) may be formed by a rear plate (111). The rear plate (111) may be formed of, for example, glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. The side surface (101C) may be formed by a side bezel structure (or “side member”) (112) that is coupled to the front plate (102) and the rear plate (111) and comprises metal and / or polymer. In some embodiments, the rear plate (111) and the side bezel structure (112) may be formed integrally and comprise the same material (e.g., a metal material such as glass or aluminum, or a ceramic). In other embodiments, the front surface (101A) and / or the front plate (102) may be interpreted as a part of the display (110). In one embodiment, the housing (101) may include the front plate (102) and the rear plate (111).

[0039] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include at least one of a display (110), an audio module (103, 104, 105), a sensor module, a camera module (106, 207), a key input device (116, 117), and a connector hole (113, 114). In some embodiments, the electronic device (100) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the connector hole (114)) or may additionally include other components.

[0040] In one embodiment, the display (110) may be visually exposed through, for example, a substantial portion of the front plate (102). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the display (110) may be exposed through the front plate (102) forming the front surface (101A). In one embodiment, the display (110) may be a flexible display or a foldable display.

[0041] In one embodiment, the surface (or front plate (102)) of the housing (101) may include a screen display area formed as the display (110) is visually exposed. As an example, the screen display area may include the front surface (101A).

[0042] In another embodiment (not shown), the electronic device (100) may include a recess or opening formed in a portion of a screen display area (e.g., the front surface (101A)) of the display (110), and may include at least one of an audio module (105), a sensor module (not shown), a light-emitting element (not shown), and a camera module (106) aligned with the recess or opening. In another embodiment (not shown), the electronic device (100) may include at least one of an audio module (105), a sensor module (not shown), a camera module (106), a fingerprint sensor (not shown), and a light-emitting element (not shown) on a back surface of the screen display area of ​​the display (110).

[0043] In other embodiments (not shown), the display (110) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer that detects a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0044] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the key input device (116, 117) may be disposed in the side bezel structure (112).

[0045] According to one embodiment, the audio module (103, 104, 105) may include, for example, a microphone hole (103) and a speaker hole (104, 105). The microphone hole (103) may have a microphone disposed therein for acquiring external sound, and in some embodiments, multiple microphones may be disposed so as to detect the direction of the sound. The speaker hole (104, 105) may include an external speaker hole (104) and a receiver hole (105) for calls. In some embodiments, the speaker hole (104, 105) and the microphone hole (103) may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker may be included without the speaker hole (104, 105) (e.g., a piezo speaker).

[0046] According to one embodiment, a sensor module (not shown) may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to, for example, an internal operating state of the electronic device (100) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (not shown) may include, for example, a first sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a proximity sensor) and / or a second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the front side (101A) of the housing (101), and / or a third sensor module (not shown) (e.g., an HRM sensor) and / or a fourth sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the rear side (101B) of the housing (101). In some embodiments (not shown), the fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the front side (101A) (e.g., the display (110)) as well as the rear side (101B) of the housing (101). The electronic device (100) may further include at least one of a sensor module not shown, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor (not shown).

[0047] According to one embodiment, the camera modules (106, 107) may include, for example, a front camera module (106) disposed on the front side (101A) of the electronic device (100), a rear camera module (107) disposed on the rear side (101B), a flash (108), and / or a laser light source (109). The camera modules (106, 107) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (108) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. The laser light source (109) may include, for example, a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL). In some embodiments, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device (100).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the key input devices (116, 117) may be positioned on a side (101C) of the housing (101). In other embodiments, the electronic device (100) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (116, 117), and the key input devices (116, 117) that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (110).

[0049] According to one embodiment, a light-emitting element (not shown) may be disposed, for example, on the front surface (101A) of the housing (101). The light-emitting element (not shown) may provide, for example, status information of the electronic device (100) in the form of light. In another embodiment, the light-emitting element (not shown) may provide, for example, a light source that is linked to the operation of the front camera module (106). The light-emitting element (not shown) may include, for example, an LED, an IR LED, and / or a xenon lamp.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the connector holes (113, 114) may include a first connector hole (113) that can accommodate, for example, a connector for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device (e.g., a USB connector) or a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with an external electronic device (e.g., an earphone jack), and / or a second connector hole (114) that can accommodate a storage device (e.g., a subscriber identification module (SIM) card). According to one embodiment, the first connector hole (113) and / or the second connector hole (114) may be omitted.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may further include a pen input device (115). The pen input device (115) (e.g., a stylus pen) may be guided into or removed from the housing (101) of the electronic device (100) through a hole formed in a side bezel structure (112) of the housing (101), and may include a button for easy removal. A separate resonance circuit may be built into the pen input device (115) to be linked with an electromagnetic induction panel (e.g., a digitizer) included in the electronic device (100). The pen input device (115) may include an EMR (electro-magnetic resonance) method, an AES (active electrical stylus), and an ECR (electric coupled resonance) method.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the camera modules (106, 107) and / or the sensor modules (not shown) may be arranged so as to be in contact with the external environment through a designated area of ​​the display (110) and the front plate (102) in the internal space of the electronic device (100). For example, the designated area may be an area in the display (110) where no pixels are arranged. As another example, the designated area may be an area in the display (110) where pixels are arranged. When viewed from above the display (110), at least a portion of the designated area may overlap with the camera modules (106, 107) and / or the sensor modules. As another example, some sensor modules may be arranged so as to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the front plate (102) in the internal space of the electronic device.

[0053] The electronic device (100) disclosed in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a bar-type or plate-type exterior, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the illustrated electronic device may be a part of a rollable electronic device or a foldable electronic device. The term "rollable electronic device" may refer to an electronic device whose display is capable of bending deformation, so that at least a portion thereof can be wound or rolled or stored inside a housing. Depending on the user's needs, the rollable electronic device can be used by expanding the screen display area by unfolding the display or exposing a wider area of ​​the display to the outside. The term "foldable electronic device" may refer to an electronic device that can be folded so that two different regions of the display face each other or face opposite to each other. Typically, in a portable state, the display of a foldable electronic device is folded so that the two different regions face each other or face each other, and in an actual use state, the user can unfold the display so that the two different regions form a substantially flat shape. In some embodiments, the electronic device (100) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be interpreted to include not only portable electronic devices such as smart phones, but also various other electronic devices such as notebook computers and home appliances.

[0054] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a first pattern layer including a base and a first pattern according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] The present disclosure can provide a housing (e.g., the housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2) made of a metal material, which forms a pattern having a certain shape by surface processing, and implements different glosses on surfaces of the pattern facing different directions, thereby displaying multiple glosses that are glossy or matte depending on the viewing position of the pattern, and an electronic device (100) including the same (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0056] In addition to the metal material, the housing (e.g., the housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2) may further include, at least partially, a synthetic resin (e.g., plastic) and / or a resin (e.g., resin) material. Here, the metal material may include aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium, or titanium. For example, the housing may include a metal material for aesthetic appeal and / or to utilize a portion of the housing as an antenna. In addition, for example, the housing may include a synthetic resin and / or a resin material for aesthetic appeal and / or to insulate at least a portion of the housing from other portions.

[0057] The surface of a metal housing (e.g., the housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2) can be determined to be glossy or matte depending on the presence / absence of irregularities, regularity / irregularity of the irregularities, size of the irregularities, spacing between the irregularities, and / or height of the irregularities formed on the housing surface. On the surface of a housing without irregularities, incident light is regularly reflected, resulting in a glossy surface, but when light is incident on a surface with irregularities, diffuse reflection may occur on the surface, resulting in a matte surface. In the present disclosure, by using this principle, different irregularities may be formed on a surface included in a pattern of a pattern formed on the surface of the housing, thereby providing a housing having different gloss levels depending on the viewing angle from which the pattern is viewed. According to one embodiment, the housing includes a metal material that is an electrically conductive material, and thus can be colored through an anodizing process described below.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, a housing (201) (e.g., housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2) may include a base (210), a first pattern layer (220), and a second pattern layer (230). The first pattern layer (220) and the second pattern layer (230) may be formed on one side (211) of the base (210). As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first pattern layer (220) may be formed on one side (211) of the base (210), and the second pattern layer (230) may be formed on a portion of the first pattern layer (220).

[0059] In the present disclosure, the implementation of the glossy pattern may be based on the formation of a first pattern layer (220) on one side (211) of a base (210), wherein the first pattern layer (220) includes a metal material and implements at least a partially smooth glossy surface. In addition, in the present disclosure, the diversification of the glossy pattern may be implemented by forming a second pattern layer (230) including second patterns smaller in size than the first patterns forming the first pattern layer (220) on at least one side of the first pattern layer (220). In the present disclosure, due to the presence of the first pattern layer (220) and the second pattern layer (230) formed on the base (210), a visual effect of providing various textures as well as gloss and / or matte may be achieved depending on the angle at which a certain point of the housing (201) on which the first pattern layer (220) and the second pattern layer (230) are formed is viewed.

[0060] The base (210) may be a base portion for forming the first pattern layer (220) and the second pattern layer (230). The base (210) may be, for example, a portion of the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) as illustrated in FIG. 3, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The base (210) may be entirely made of a metal material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium, titanium), or may further include, at least partially, a synthetic resin (e.g., plastic) and / or a resin (e.g., resin) material.

[0061] The first pattern layer (220) may have a form that is elongated in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). Referring to FIG. 3, the first pattern layer (220) may be formed to be elongated in the Y-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction of the coordinate axes, but it should be noted that this is only one example for convenience of understanding. The extension direction of the first pattern layer (220) may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the first pattern layer (220) may extend in the X-axis direction, or the first pattern layer (220) may extend in a direction inclined with respect to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, respectively.

[0062] The first pattern layer (220) may have a plurality of first patterns constituting the first pattern layer (220) in a regular arrangement and / or shape. According to one embodiment, the first pattern layer (220) may include first patterns that are regularly arranged and have a cross-section of a polygon greater than or equal to an inverted trapezoid, a trapezoid, a triangle, a circle, a square, or the like. FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which the cross-section of the first pattern layer (220) is triangular. Hereinafter, the features of the present disclosure will be described in detail with a focus on the first pattern layer (220) having a triangular cross-section of FIG. 3.

[0063] The first pattern layer (220) may be a relief pattern formed by protruding from one side (211) of the base (210). Alternatively, the first pattern layer (220) may be an intaglio pattern formed by removing at least a portion of the base (210). Referring to FIG. 4, an embodiment in which the first pattern layer (220) is formed in an intaglio manner is illustrated. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the triangular pattern of the first pattern layer (220) may be formed by repeatedly carving and / or etching, for example, a triangular prism-shaped cutting portion (213) from a certain side (212) of the base (210). According to one embodiment, the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer (220) may be formed in a range of 10 to 1,000 μm, and the depth of the first pattern may be formed in a range of 1 to 100 μm, and the appearance of the product may appear visually different depending on the width and depth of the first pattern. According to one embodiment, the distance (e.g., pitch (P)) between the first patterns included in the first pattern layer (220) may be substantially equal to the width of the pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 4. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the distance (e.g., pitch (P)) between the first patterns included in the first pattern layer (220) may be set to be larger than the width of the first pattern. In the case where the distance (e.g., pitch (P)) between the first patterns is set to be larger than the width of the first pattern, when the first pattern is an engraved pattern, the pillar-shaped portion (213) that is repeatedly excavated and / or etched may have a trapezoidal cross-section.

[0064] According to one embodiment, any pattern can be applied to the first pattern layer (220) as long as it includes at least two different surfaces. Meanwhile, when the first pattern has a triangular cross-section as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first pattern layer (220) can include a first surface (221) and a second surface (222). In addition, a second pattern layer (230) having a second pattern having a narrower width than the width of the first pattern can be formed on at least one surface (e.g., the second surface (222)) of the first pattern layer. The second pattern layer (230) can include a second pattern that is irregularly arranged, unlike the first pattern that is regularly arranged. For example, the second pattern can include irregularities. The present disclosure provides a first pattern layer (220) having at least two different surfaces, at least one surface including a second pattern that is arranged irregularly, unlike the first pattern, and at least one other surface including a glabrous surface, thereby allowing a user to experience various glossy effects when viewing the housing (201) from various directions. Here, the glabrous surface may also be referred to as a glossy surface.

[0065] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a housing (201) including a base (210), a first pattern layer (220), and a second pattern layer (230) may be applied to a rear plate (111) of an electronic device (100) as an example. At this time, it may be assumed that the housing (201) including the base (210), the first pattern layer (220), and the second pattern layer (230) is viewed in the directions indicated by three arrows A, B, and C. Here, the direction of arrow A and the direction of arrow C may be a direction in which the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) is viewed obliquely from above and downward, and arrow B may be a direction in which the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) is viewed vertically from above and downward.

[0066] When looking at the housing (201) in the direction of arrow A, the second surface (222) where the smooth surface of the first pattern layer (220) is formed is mainly visible, so a glossy effect can be exerted. The exertion of a glossy effect can mean that light is well reflected. Accordingly, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance can be relatively clearly reflected through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100).

[0067] When looking at the housing (201) from the direction of arrow B, the second surface (222) on which the smooth surface of the first pattern layer (220) is formed and the first surface (221) on which the second pattern layer (230) is formed can be seen simultaneously. Light directed toward the second surface (222) is well reflected and thus has a glossy effect, and light directed toward the first surface (221) is dispersed and thus has a matte effect. Therefore, the glossy effect in the direction of arrow B may be exerted less than when viewed from the direction of arrow A. The fact that the glossy effect is exerted relatively less may mean that if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance may be reflected more blurrily through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100).

[0068] When looking at the housing (201) in the direction of arrow C, the first surface (221) on which the second pattern layer (230) of the first pattern layer (220) is formed is mainly visible, so a matte effect can be achieved. The matte effect can mean that light is not reflected but dispersed. Accordingly, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance may not be visible or may be reflected very dimly through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100). In Fig. 3, the user's appearance being very dimly reflected is illustrated by a dotted line.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 5, a housing (301) (e.g., housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2, housing (201) of FIGS. 3 and 4) may include a base (310), a first pattern layer (320), and a second pattern layer (330). The first pattern layer (320) and the second pattern layer (330) may be formed on one surface (311) of the base (310). As illustrated in FIG. 5, the first pattern layer (320) may be formed on one surface (311) of the base (310), and the second pattern layer (330) may be formed on a portion of the first pattern layer (320).

[0071] The base (310) may be a base portion for forming the first pattern layer (320) and the second pattern layer (330). The base (310) may be, for example, a portion of the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) as illustrated in FIG. 5, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The base (310) may be entirely made of a metal material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium, titanium), or may further include, at least partially, a synthetic resin (e.g., plastic) and / or a resin (e.g., resin) material.

[0072] The first pattern layer (320) may have a form that extends in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). Referring to FIG. 5, the first pattern layer (320) may be formed to extend in the Y-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction of the coordinate axes, but it should be noted that this is only one example for convenience of understanding. The extension direction of the first pattern layer (320) may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the first pattern layer (320) may extend in the X-axis direction, or the first pattern layer (320) may extend in a direction inclined with respect to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, respectively.

[0073] The first pattern layer (320) may have a plurality of first patterns constituting the first pattern layer (320) in a regular arrangement and / or shape. FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment in which the cross-section of the first pattern layer (320) is trapezoidal. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the housing (301) may include a first pattern layer (320) having a trapezoidal cross-section in which the longer side among the two opposing sides is formed adjacent to the base (310).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer (320) may be formed at 10 to 1,000 μm, the depth of the first pattern may be formed at 1 to 100 μm, and the appearance of the product may appear visually different depending on the width and depth of the first pattern.

[0075] The first pattern layer (320) may include a first surface (321), a second surface (322), and a third surface (323). Here, the first surface (321) may be an upper surface formed at a predetermined distance from the base (310) in the first pattern having a trapezoidal cross-section, and the second surface (322) and the third surface (323) may correspond to side surfaces in the first pattern having a trapezoidal cross-section. In addition, a second pattern layer (330) may be formed on at least one surface (e.g., the first surface (321)) of the first pattern layer (320), in which a second pattern having a narrower width than the width of the first pattern is formed. The second pattern layer (330) may include a second pattern that is irregularly arranged, unlike the first pattern that is regularly arranged. For example, the second pattern may include irregularities. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the first pattern layer (320) includes at least three different surfaces, at least one surface including a second pattern that is irregularly arranged, unlike the first pattern, and at least one other surface including a glabrous surface, thereby allowing a user to experience various gloss effects when viewing the housing (301) from various directions.

[0076] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, a housing (301) including a base (310), a first pattern layer (320), and a second pattern layer (330) may be applied to a rear plate (111) of an electronic device (100) as an example. At this time, it may be assumed that the housing (301) including the base (310), the first pattern layer (320), and the second pattern layer (330) is viewed in the directions indicated by three arrows D, E, and F. Here, the direction of arrow D and the direction of arrow F may be a direction in which the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) is viewed obliquely from above and downward, and the direction of arrow E may be a direction in which the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) is viewed vertically from above and downward.

[0077] When looking at the housing (301) in the direction of arrow D, since the second surface (322) on which the smooth surface of the first pattern layer (320) is formed is mainly visible, a glossy effect can be exerted. However, since the first surface (321) on which the second pattern layer (330) of the first pattern layer (320) is partially formed is also visible, a matte effect can also be exerted to some extent. When looking at the housing (301) in the direction of arrow D, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance can be reflected through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100).

[0078] When looking at the housing (301) in the direction of arrow E, the first surface (321) on which the second pattern layer (330) of the first pattern layer (320) is formed is mainly visible, so that light is dispersed to produce a matte effect. Accordingly, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance may not be visible or may be reflected very dimly through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100). In Fig. 5, the user's appearance being very dimly reflected is illustrated by a dotted line.

[0079] When looking at the housing (301) in the direction of arrow F, since the third surface (323) on which the smooth surface of the first pattern layer (320) is formed is mainly visible, a glossy effect can be exerted. However, since the first surface (321) on which the second pattern layer (330) of the first pattern layer (320) is partially formed is also visible, a matte effect can also be exerted to some extent. When looking at the housing (301) in the direction of arrow F, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance can be reflected through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100).

[0080] Meanwhile, in FIG. 5, an embodiment is illustrated in which a second pattern layer (330) is formed on the first surface (321) among the first surface (321), the second surface (322), and the third surface (323) of the first pattern layer (320), and the user's appearance in the directions of arrows D, E, and F is described with reference to the embodiment accordingly. However, it should be noted that this is only one example and various other embodiments may be applied. For example, an embodiment in which a second pattern layer (330) is formed on the first surface (321) of the first pattern layer (320), and additionally, a second pattern layer (330) is formed on the second surface (322) or the third surface (323) is also applicable. Alternatively, an embodiment in which the first surface (321) of the first pattern layer (320) has a smooth surface and the second pattern layer (330) is formed on the other second surface (322) and / or third surface (323) is also applicable.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 6, a housing (401) (e.g., the housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing (201) of FIGS. 3 and 4, and the housing (301) of FIG. 5) may include a base (410), a first pattern layer (420), and a second pattern layer (430). The first pattern layer (420) and the second pattern layer (430) may be formed on one surface (411) of the base (410). As illustrated in FIG. 6, the first pattern layer (420) may be formed on one surface (411) of the base (410), and the second pattern layer (430) may be formed on a portion of the first pattern layer (420).

[0083] The base (410) may be a base portion for forming the first pattern layer (420) and the second pattern layer (430). The base (410) may be, for example, a portion of the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) as illustrated in FIG. 6, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The base (410) may be entirely made of a metal material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium, titanium), or may further include, at least partially, a synthetic resin (e.g., plastic) and / or a resin (e.g., resin) material.

[0084] The first pattern layer (420) may have a form that is elongated in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). Referring to FIG. 6, the first pattern layer (420) may be formed to be elongated in the Y-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction of the coordinate axes, but it should be noted that this is only one example for convenience of understanding. The extension direction of the first pattern layer (420) may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the first pattern layer (420) may extend in the X-axis direction, or the first pattern layer (420) may extend in a direction inclined with respect to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, respectively.

[0085] The first pattern layer (420) may have a plurality of first patterns constituting the first pattern layer (420) in a regular arrangement and / or shape. FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which the cross-section of the first pattern layer (420) is an inverted trapezoid. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the housing (401) may include a first pattern layer (420) having an inverted trapezoidal cross-section in which the shorter side among the two opposing sides is formed adjacent to the base (410).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer (420) may be formed in a range of 10 to 1,000 μm, the depth of the first pattern may be formed in a range of 1 to 100 μm, and the appearance of the product may appear visually different depending on the width and depth of the first pattern. In addition, the pitch (spacing between patterns) of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer may be 30 μm or more. The first pattern and the second pattern may be manufactured on a micrometer scale. Here, the fact that the first pattern and the second pattern are manufactured on a micrometer scale can be understood to mean that the first pattern and the second pattern have dimensions in micrometer units.

[0087] The first pattern layer (420) may include a first surface (421), a second surface (422), and a third surface (423). Here, the first surface (421) may be an upper surface formed at a predetermined distance from the base (410) in the first pattern having a trapezoidal cross-section, and the second surface (422) and the third surface (423) may correspond to side surfaces in the first pattern having a trapezoidal cross-section. In addition, a second pattern layer (430) may be formed on at least one surface (e.g., the first surface (421)) of the first pattern layer (420), in which a second pattern having a narrower width than the width of the first pattern is formed. The second pattern layer (430) may include a second pattern that is irregularly arranged, unlike the first pattern that is regularly arranged. For example, the second pattern may include irregularities. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the first pattern layer (420) includes at least three different surfaces, at least one surface including a second pattern that is arranged irregularly, unlike the first pattern, and at least one other surface including a glabrous surface, thereby allowing a user to experience various gloss effects when viewing the housing (401) from various directions.

[0088] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a housing (401) including a base (410), a first pattern layer (420), and a second pattern layer (430) may be applied to a rear plate (111) of an electronic device (100) as an example. At this time, it may be assumed that the housing (401) including the base (410), the first pattern layer (420), and the second pattern layer (430) is viewed in the directions indicated by three arrows G, H, and I. Here, the direction of arrow G and the direction of arrow I may be a direction in which the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) is viewed obliquely from above and downward, and the direction of arrow H may be a direction in which the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100) is viewed vertically from above and downward.

[0089] When looking at the housing (401) in the direction of arrow G, since the second surface (422) on which the smooth surface of the first pattern layer (420) is formed is mainly visible, a glossy effect can be exerted. However, since the first surface (421) on which the second pattern layer (430) of the first pattern layer (420) is partially formed is also visible, a matte effect can also be exerted to some extent. When looking at the housing (401) in the direction of arrow G, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance can be reflected through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100).

[0090] When looking at the housing (401) in the direction of arrow H, the first surface (421) on which the second pattern layer (430) of the first pattern layer (420) is formed is mainly visible, so that light is dispersed to produce a matte effect. Accordingly, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance may not be visible or may be reflected very dimly through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100). In Fig. 6, the user's appearance being very dimly reflected is illustrated by a dotted line.

[0091] When looking at the housing (401) in the direction of arrow I, since the third surface (423) on which the smooth surface of the first pattern layer (420) is formed is mainly visible, a glossy effect can be exerted. However, since the first surface (421) on which the second pattern layer (430) of the first pattern layer (420) is partially formed is also visible, a matte effect can also be exerted to some extent. When looking at the housing (401) in the direction of arrow I, if a user is positioned adjacent to the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100), the user's appearance can be reflected through the rear plate (111) of the electronic device (100).

[0092] In FIG. 6, an embodiment in which a second pattern layer (430) is formed on the first surface (421) among the first surface (421), the second surface (422), and the third surface (423) of the first pattern layer (420) is illustrated, and the user's appearance in the directions of arrows G, H, and I according to the embodiment is described. However, it should be noted that this is only one example and various other embodiments can be applied. For example, an embodiment in which a second pattern layer (430) is formed on the first surface (421) of the first pattern layer (420), and additionally, a second pattern layer (430) is formed on the second surface (422) or the third surface (423) is also applicable. Alternatively, an embodiment in which the first surface (421) of the first pattern layer (420) has a smooth surface and the second pattern layer (430) is formed on the other second surface (422) and / or third surface (423) is also applicable.

[0093] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10, a method for manufacturing an electronic device housing will be described in detail. For the convenience of explaining the method for manufacturing the housing, the housing (401) of FIG. 6 may be used as an example.

[0094] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a primary processing step according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a protrusion-forming step according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a secondary processing step according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an electronic device housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 10, in relation to operation 610, a processing process may first be performed on the raw material (401') of the housing. Here, the processing process on the raw material (401') of the housing may include a primary processing process for forming a first pattern on the base material (410). According to one embodiment, the base material may have a first pattern layer (420) formed on one surface (411) through the primary processing process.

[0096] The first processing process is to form a first pattern layer (420) having a regular pattern on the base material. An example of the first processing process may be a CNC (computer numerical control) process using a cutting tool, but is not limited thereto. The processing process for forming the first pattern layer (420) may include processes such as casting, pressing, and cutting. FIG. 7 illustrates forming an engraved pattern as an example of the first processing process, but is not limited thereto.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, in relation to operation 620, a process of forming a second pattern on the raw material (401') of the housing on which the first processing has been completed may be performed. Here, the process of forming the second pattern may be a process for implementing a matte surface. According to one embodiment, the second pattern may include unevenness that causes diffuse reflection. Therefore, the process of forming the second pattern may include a process of forming unevenness on a metal surface physically or chemically. According to one embodiment, a physical method for forming the second pattern may include a blasting process using beads, and a chemical method for forming the second pattern may include a method of chemically etching the surface using an acid or alkaline solution. For example, the blasting process forms unevenness by colliding blasting media (520) with the surface as shown in FIG. 8, and the roughness Ra value of the surface on which unevenness is formed is between 0.7 and 5.0 ㎛, and the glossiness is between 0 and 50 GU, so that light incident on the surface is diffusely reflected to create a matte surface.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, in relation to operation 630, a secondary processing process may be performed to form a smooth surface on the first pattern. This may be a process for forming a glossy surface on the surface on which the second pattern (e.g., unevenness) is formed through the process of forming the previous second pattern. Since the glossy surface is formed through the primary processing process and then the glossy surface is formed again through the secondary processing process, the secondary processing process may be referred to as a “reprocessing process.” At this time, at least a portion of the surface on which the existing second pattern was formed must remain in order to provide various glossy patterns. Therefore, in order to prevent the second pattern from being completely removed through the secondary processing process, a tool (or tool) larger in size may be used in the secondary processing process than the tool (or tool) used in the primary processing process. For example, among ND (natural diamond), MCD (monocrystalline diamond), PCD (polycrystalline diamond), and CVD (chemical vapor deposition) that can be used in the processing, a single-crystal MCD tool can be adopted to secure high gloss quality. By performing a secondary processing process, at least some surfaces (e.g., the second surface (422), the third surface (423)) of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer (420) can have a smooth surface. At this time, the roughness Ra value of the smooth surface can be set to have a high-mirror surface of 0.5㎛ or less, and the gloss measurement result can have a gloss of 100GU or more.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 10, in relation to operation 640, the housing (401) can further enhance the aesthetic appeal of its exterior by additionally forming color on its surface with various glossy patterns. To this end, as a method of manufacturing the housing (401), an anodizing process that forms an oxide layer on the surface of the housing can be performed. The anodizing process, which is one type of metal surface treatment, is a process that forms a porous oxide film on the surface to provide a reliable oxide film on the exterior of the product.

[0100] The anodizing film forming operation can be performed by providing equipment that accommodates an electrolyte containing at least one or all of an electrolyte containing sulfuric acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, chromic acid, an organic acid (citric acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, tartaric acid), or boric acid, placing a housing including a metal member in the electrolyte, and providing a predetermined voltage and temperature. In the anodizing film forming operation, a voltage is applied to the metal material to cause a reaction with oxygen, and a high-density oxide film can be formed. For example, the operating voltage can be applied within the range of approximately 5 to 50 V, and the process time can take approximately 10 minutes to approximately 3 hours. The process temperature can be applied within the range of approximately 5 to 30°C. After the anodizing operation, a coloring operation can be performed. The coloring operation can be a process of expressing color in the anodized oxide film. For example, there are various types of coloring operations, such as immersion, electrolytic coloring, and oil-based methods. The immersion method is a method of implementing color from the diffused and absorbed dye by immersing the product in a solution in which a dye is dissolved, and the electrolytic coloring method is a method of causing color development by electrolyzing a metal salt electrolyte using a commutator and then applying current. The oil-based method is a coloring method in which an oxide film is photosensitized, dried, and then an oil-based dye is applied with a brush. Here, the types of dyes used in the immersion method include both organic and inorganic dyes, and since the dyes used in the immersion method are mainly soluble in water, they can also be called water-based methods.

[0101] For example, the present disclosure can perform surface coloring using an immersion method. The principle of organic dyes adsorbing and coloring the inside of a polar aluminum anodized layer can be applied. The conditions for this dye coloring process can be a dye concentration of 1 to 20 g / L, a dye bath temperature of 10 to 50°C, and a coloring time of 5 to 600 seconds. The present disclosure is not limited to the following coloring methods, and coloring can be performed using various methods.

[0102] After the coloring process, an oxide layer sealing process can be performed to ensure the reliability of the dye and prevent color fading. This process seals open pores in the oxide layer. Various methods exist, including hydration sealing, acetic acid sealing, and vaporization sealing, and the sealing process described herein is not limited thereto.

[0103] To summarize the above, the present disclosure is characterized by having multiple glosses that simultaneously have a glossy surface and a matte surface, and can implement an appearance with a variety of feelings depending on which surface the glossy surface and the matte surface are located on.

[0104] FIG. 11A is a drawing illustrating a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a first pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11B is a drawing illustrating a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a second pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11C is a drawing illustrating a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a third pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11D is a drawing illustrating a surface of a housing including a first pattern formed to have a fourth pitch, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] Depending on the pitch of the first pattern, the density of the glossy surface can be set in various ways. FIGS. 11A to 11D may disclose housings having different pitches. For example, FIG. 11A discloses a housing (601a) including a first pattern of a triangular cross-section having a narrowest first pitch. FIG. 11B discloses a housing (601b) including a first pattern of a triangular cross-section having a second pitch greater than the first pitch. FIG. 11C discloses a housing (601c) including a first pattern of a triangular cross-section having a third pitch greater than the second pitch. FIG. 11D discloses a housing (601d) including a first pattern of a triangular cross-section having a fourth pitch greater than the third pitch.

[0106] As the pitch size decreases, that is, the spacing between the patterns narrows, the width of the stripe pattern where the glossy and matte surfaces intersect on the front becomes denser, and as the pitch size increases, that is, the spacing between the patterns widens, the width of the stripe pattern becomes wider. However, since this effect is implemented by the area of ​​the first pattern having a triangular cross-section, it can be applied to various other embodiments. According to one embodiment, the stripe gloss pattern can be adjusted by adjusting the angle of the pattern (e.g., angle α in FIG. 4) similar to adjusting the pitch spacing. As the angle of the pattern becomes narrower, the shape of the triangle becomes narrower, forming a dense stripe gloss pattern, and as the angle of the pattern becomes wider, the shape of the triangle becomes larger, forming a wide stripe gloss pattern.

[0107] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a surface of a housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13a is a diagram illustrating a housing including a pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13b is a diagram illustrating a housing including a pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13c is a diagram illustrating a housing including a pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13d is a diagram illustrating a housing including a pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13e is a diagram illustrating a housing including a pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 12, a housing (701) (e.g., the housing (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing (201) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing (301) of FIG. 5, the housing (401) of FIG. 6, and the housings (601a, 601b, 601c, 601d) of FIGS. 11a to 11d) may include a base (710), a first pattern layer (720), and a second pattern layer (730). The first pattern layer (720) and the second pattern layer (730) may be formed on one surface (711) of the base (710). As illustrated in FIG. 12, a first pattern layer (720) may be formed on one side (711) of a base (710), and a second pattern layer (730) may be formed on a portion of the first pattern layer (720). In FIG. 12, the first pattern has a triangular cross-section as an example, and the second pattern layer (730) may not be provided on every first side (721) of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer (720), but may be formed partially. For example, when a second pattern layer (730) is formed on one first pattern, the second pattern layer (730) may not be formed on another adjacent first pattern. In this way, by forming the second pattern layer (730) only on a portion of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer (720), a wider variety of glossy and / or matte patterns may be provided. When looking at a housing (701) such as that of FIG. 12, in some cases (e.g., when looking at it from a certain angle), the same appearance as that of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 is recognized, but in other cases (e.g., when looking at it from a different angle), a hidden pattern can be recognized. That is, a hidden pattern can be provided. In addition, depending on the variety of patterns engraved on the housing (701), various appearances such as those illustrated in FIGS. 13a to 13e can be provided. For example, an appearance in the form of vertical stripes can be provided as in FIG. 13a, and also, for example, an appearance in the form of horizontal stripes can be provided as in FIG. 13b.For example, it may provide an appearance in the form of a checkered pattern as in Fig. 13c, or an appearance in the form of a specific character (e.g., T, F) or shape as in Fig. 13d or Fig. 13e.

[0109] Various embodiments of the present invention can be applied to all product groups that use metal as an outer material and are capable of forming an oxide film, in addition to the outer frame of a portable electronic device.

[0110] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided for implementing multiple glosses on an aluminum surface by forming different surface textures by forming two or more types of pattern portions on a metal material surface.

[0111] An electronic device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (101) forming at least a portion of an exterior of the electronic device. The housing may include a base (210; 310; 410); a first pattern layer (220; 320; 420) formed on the base and having a first pattern having at least two surfaces; and a second pattern layer (230; 330; 430) having a second pattern formed on at least one surface of the first pattern, the second pattern having a narrower width than the width of the first pattern. At least one surface of the first pattern may be formed as a glabrous surface.

[0112] In one embodiment, the first pattern may include a regular pattern having a cross-section of a trapezoid, trapezoid, triangle, circle, or polygon greater than a square.

[0113] In one embodiment, the second pattern may comprise an irregular pattern.

[0114] In one embodiment, the second pattern may include a protrusion.

[0115] In one embodiment, the second pattern can be formed by blasting or chemical etching.

[0116] In one embodiment, the housing may comprise a metallic material.

[0117] In one embodiment, the base and the first pattern layer may comprise aluminum, stainless steel, or magnesium.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer may be 10 to 1,000 μm.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer may be 1 to 100 μm.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the pitch of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer may be 30 μm or more.

[0121] A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a process (610) of first processing a surface of a metallic housing to have a first pattern; a process (620) of forming a second pattern on the surface of the housing on which the first pattern is formed; and a process (630) of second processing to form a smooth surface on a portion of the surface of the housing on which the second pattern is formed.

[0122] According to one embodiment, a color implementation process (640) through an anodic oxidation process may be further included.

[0123] In one embodiment, the tool used in the secondary processing may be larger in size than the tool used in the primary processing.

[0124] In one embodiment, the first pattern may include a regular pattern having a cross-section of a trapezoid, trapezoid, triangle, circle, or polygon greater than a square.

[0125] In one embodiment, the second pattern may comprise an irregular pattern.

[0126] In one embodiment, the second pattern may include a protrusion.

[0127] In one embodiment, the second pattern can be formed by blasting or chemical etching.

[0128] In one embodiment, the housing may comprise a metallic material.

[0129] In one embodiment, the base and the first pattern layer may comprise aluminum, stainless steel, or magnesium.

[0130] In one embodiment, the first pattern and the second pattern can be manufactured on a micrometer scale.

[0131] The embodiments of this disclosure are presented for the purpose of explaining and understanding the disclosed technical content, and are not intended to limit the scope of the technology described in this disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure should be interpreted to include all modifications or various other embodiments based on the technical concepts of this disclosure.

[0132] Although the detailed description of the present disclosure has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (100), Comprising a housing (101) forming at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device, The above housing Base (210;310;410); and A first pattern layer (220; 320; 420) formed on the above base and having a first pattern having at least two surfaces; At least one side of the first pattern includes a second pattern layer (230; 330; 430) on which a second pattern having a narrower width than the width of the first pattern is formed, and at least one side of the first pattern is formed as a glabrous surface. Electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device wherein the first pattern comprises a regular pattern having a cross section of a trapezoid, a trapezoid, a triangle, a circle, or a polygon greater than a square.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The second pattern is an electronic device including an irregular pattern.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The second pattern is an electronic device including a protrusion.

5. In paragraph 3 or 4, The second pattern is an electronic device formed by blasting or chemical etching.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, An electronic device wherein the housing comprises a metal material.

7. In paragraph 6, An electronic device wherein the base and the first pattern layer comprise aluminum, stainless steel, or magnesium.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, An electronic device wherein the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer is 10 to 1,000 μm.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, An electronic device wherein the width of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer is 1 to 100 μm.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, An electronic device wherein the pitch of the first pattern included in the first pattern layer is 30㎛ or more.

11. A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing, A first step of processing the surface of the metal housing to have a first pattern; A step of forming a second pattern on the housing surface on which the first pattern is formed; and A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing, comprising: a step of performing secondary processing to form a smooth surface on a portion of a surface of a housing on which the second pattern is formed.

12. In paragraph 11, A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing further comprising a color implementation step through an anodic oxidation process.

13. In either of paragraphs 11 or 12, A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing, characterized in that the tool used in the secondary processing is larger in size than the tool used in the primary processing.

14. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing, wherein the first pattern comprises a regular pattern having a cross section of a trapezoid, a trapezoid, a triangle, a circle, or a polygon greater than a square.

15. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 14, A method for manufacturing an electronic device housing, wherein the second pattern includes an irregular pattern.

Images